Cortijo Tinto 2020

"I cannot think of another Rioja at this price level that offers this much character and fruit" were the words of Robert M. Parker Jr. when writing about Cortijo. Rioja is Spain's most prestigious wine region and for younger wine drinkers who want to learn more about this magical, storybook wine region, its grapes and its wines, Cortijo Tinto offers a perfect introduction.

Cortijo means cottage or shack, a reference to the fact that even a humble winery in Rioja can make excellent quality wine. The philosophy of Cortijo is simple: to make better wine, you need to harvest better grapes. The quality of Cortijo wines are achieved by maintaining quality in the vineyards. Rather than building a chateau or a beautiful tasting room, Cortijo focuses on cultivating the only meaningful ingredient, the grapes. Cortijo Tinto is a pure, youthful expression of Rioja Alta at an excellent price point.

Tasting Notes

Bright violet. Dried cherry, red currant and tobacco aromas are lifted by a peppery flourish. Juicy and focused on the palate, offering bitter cherry and floral pastille flavors that turn sweeter with aeration. Gently chewy tannins frame a long, spicy finish that leaves a floral note behind.

Food Pairing

The fresh, pure character of this wine makes this an extremely versatile wine to pair with food. This wine pairs well with white meats like pork and chicken and flaky fish like hake, cod or flounder. This has the fruit and acidity to match with red meats, as well.

Tempranillo

Spain, Rioja